Robert Parsons as Abraham Lincoln, Rick Foucheux as Stephen Douglas and Sarah Zimmerman as Adele Douglas in the Ford’s Theatre Society production of Norman Corwin’s The Rivalry, directed by Mark Ramont. Photo by T. Charles Erickson.
Ford’s Theatre Society and the National Park Service celebrates Abraham Lincoln’s birthday with special February programming. On February 5th, 12th, and 19th, Washington-area youth will present a selection of Lincoln’s greatest speeches as part of the Target Oratory Festival. On February 12th at 8:45 a.m., National Park Service Park Rangers will commemorate President Lincoln’s birthday with a Wreath-laying Ceremony on the historic steps of Ford’s Theatre. On February 13th, 15th, and 20th, visitors are invited to explore the many legends surrounding Abraham Lincoln’s life in Tales of the Lincoln with storyteller Jon Spelman.
Visitors can tour the recently renovated Ford’s Theatre Museum and experience an interpretive program about the events that led up to and include the assassination of President Lincoln. Visitors can also visit the Petersen House (the “House Where Lincoln Died”), dependent upon schedule. Through February 14th, check out a performance of “The Rivalry,” which explores the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates. And to further enhance the visitor experience, park rangers and volunteers will be dressed in Civil War-era period clothing throughout the month of February.
Rick Foucheux as Stephen Douglas and Sarah Zimmerman as Adele Douglas in the Ford’s Theatre Society production of Norman Corwin’s The Rivalry, directed by Mark Ramont. Photo by T. Charles Erickson.
Ford’s Theatre will also will hold a one-day sale for 20% off tickets to performances of “Little Shop of Horrors” (March 12-May 22), and half-off tickets to its popular History on Foot walking tour “A Free Black Woman: Elizabeth Keckly” (tours begin Saturday, April 3). Tickets must be purchased in person at the Ford’s Theatre Box Office on Monday, February 15th. (For more information on “Little Shop of Horrors” or History on Foot walking tours, visit fords.org.)
The original overcoat worn by Abraham Lincoln the night he was assassinated will be reinstalled in its Ford’s Theatre display case on February 12th. The coat recently underwent conservation by a textile conservator. The coat will be displayed through the end of June.
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courtesy of ‘Ghost_Bear’
Tickets to the Target Oratory Festival
Tickets are free and required for all visitors ages two and older. Tickets to the Target Oratory Festival will be available beginning at 8:30 a.m. on February 5th, 12th, and 19th at the Ford’s Theatre Box Office.
Tickets to Tales of the Lincoln
Tickets are free and required for all visitors ages two and older. Tickets for Tales of the Lincoln may be reserved in advance in person at the Ford’s Theatre Box Office or via Ticketmaster at (202) 397-SEAT or ticketmaster.com. There is a $1.50 convenience fee for reserving in advance. Tickets purchased through Ticketmaster will also be subject to Ticketmaster fees. The Ford’s Theatre convenience fee will be waived for the program taking place on President’s Day, February 15th.
Tickets to “The Rivalry”
Tickets to “The Rivalry” range from $10 to $53. They may be purchased in person at the Ford’s Theatre Box Office or via Ticketmaster at (202) 397-SEAT or ticketmaster.com. This production is appropriate for ages 12 and up.
Tickets to Ranger Programs
Tickets are free and required for all visitors ages two and older. A visit to the Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site may include visiting the redesigned museum, experiencing an interpretive park ranger program, and visiting the Petersen House. The Ford’s Theatre Box Office opens at 8:30 a.m. for distribution of same-day tickets. Advance reservations may be made via Ticketmaster at (202) 397-SEAT or at Ticketmaster.com. The Ford’s Theatre convenience fee will be waived for Programming on President’s Day, February 15th, though Ticketmaster fees still apply.
Having lived in the DC area for ten years, Ben still loves to wander the city with his wife, shooting lots of photos and exploring all the latest exhibits and galleries. A certified hockey fanatic, he spends some time debating the Washington Capitals club with friends – but everyone knows of his three decade love affair with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
A professional writer, gamer, photographer, and Lego enthusiast, Ben remains captivated by DC and doesn’t plan on leaving any time soon.
